Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that has gained popularity around the world. This flavorful vegetarian dish features layers of tender eggplant smothered in tomato sauce, topped with cheeses and baked until golden brown. Although Eggplant Parmigiana is delicious on its own, it’s always good to know what sides to serve with it to turn it into a well-rounded meal.
Choosing the perfect accompaniment for Eggplant Parmigiana can be tricky, especially if you’re looking for something that complements its flavors. While you can experiment with a variety of side dishes, it’s always a good idea to stick to options that enhance the dish’s natural flavors. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best sides that can add balance and variety to your Eggplant Parmigiana meal.
Classic side dishes for Eggplant Parmigiana
Eggplant Parmigiana is a delectable Italian dish that consists of layers of breaded eggplant, tomato sauce and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s a hearty main course that can be paired with a variety of flavorful side dishes. When it comes to classic side dishes, there are several options that can complement the flavors of the dish.
One popular option is garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread pairs well with the tomato sauce and cheese, and the garlic flavor elevates the dish. Another classic side dish is a simple green salad. The freshness of the greens can balance the richness of the Eggplant Parmigiana. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can also be a great choice, adding color and nutrients to the meal. Ultimately, whether you choose garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables, any of these classic side dishes can provide a delicious and satisfying complement to Eggplant Parmigiana.
Salads and veggies to pair with Eggplant Parmigiana
If you are looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish to pair with your Eggplant Parmigiana, a salad is a great option. A crisp and refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the cheesy and saucy eggplant dish. You can either go with a simple green salad or a more elaborate one with a variety of veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and olives. You can add a tangy dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette or lemon garlic dressing to complement the flavors of the Eggplant Parmigiana.
When it comes to pairing veggies with Eggplant Parmigiana, you can opt for either roasted or grilled veggies. Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms can be a perfect accompaniment to the dish. Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, and eggplant, can also complement the flavors of the Eggplant Parmigiana. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle some herbs like oregano or basil on the veggies before cooking to enhance their flavors. With these salad and vegetable options, you can create a balanced and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion!
Bread options that complement Eggplant Parmigiana
Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish made with layers of fried or baked eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. This rich and flavorful dish pairs well with a variety of bread options, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.
One popular bread option to serve with Eggplant Parmigiana is garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the tomato-based sauce and adds a nice crunch to the meal. Another bread option is sourdough bread, which has a tangy flavor that balances well with the savory eggplant and cheese. It also has a dense, chewy texture that complements the soft texture of the eggplant. Other options include crusty Italian bread, focaccia, and ciabatta, all of which add a nice crunch to the dish and soak up the delicious sauce and cheese. Overall, bread options play an important role in enhancing the flavors of Eggplant Parmigiana and offer a satisfying touch to this classic Italian dish.
How to match vegetarian and non-vegetarian sides with Eggplant Parmigiana
When it comes to pairing sides with Eggplant Parmigiana, you can choose between vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. If you’re serving a mixed crowd, then you want to ensure that the sides cater to everyone’s dietary preferences. You can opt for a light and refreshing salad with a simple vinaigrette or a mix of roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or mushrooms. A side of garlic bread or crusty bread with herbed butter also goes well with Eggplant Parmigiana.
If you’re looking for non-vegetarian side options, then roasted chicken, grilled shrimp, or pan-fried salmon are excellent choices. These protein-packed options add a touch of indulgence to the dish and satiate the non-vegetarians in your group. You can also consider pairing the dish with a hearty soup, such as tomato or minestrone, and a glass of red wine for the ultimate Italian dining experience. Remember, the key to a great meal is variety, so mix and match sides that complement Eggplant Parmigiana, and enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family.
Crafting the perfect cheese pairing for Eggplant Parmigiana
Crafting the perfect cheese pairing for Eggplant Parmigiana is essential to enhance the flavor profile of this classic Italian dish. When it comes to pairing cheese with eggplant parmigiana, it’s crucial to choose a cheese that can complement the dish without overpowering it. Parmesan is a popular choice as it has a nutty and salty flavor that pairs well with the rich tomato sauce. The flavors of Parmesan cheese add depth to the dish and balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Another excellent cheese pairing for eggplant parmigiana is mozzarella. Mozzarella has a mild flavor and fresh taste that complements rather than masks the flavors of the tomato sauce and eggplant. Mozzarella is a popular choice for eggplant parmigiana because it melts into a stringy mass, adding a robust flavor and silky texture to the dish. However, if you want to add a bit of savory flavor to the dish, opting for a stronger cheese like Asiago or Provolone can be a great choice. Ultimately, choosing the right cheese comes down to personal preference, but any of these cheeses will make your eggplant Parmigiana a culinary delight.
Dessert ideas to round out your Eggplant Parmigiana dinner
No meal is complete without a sweet finish, especially after indulging in rich Eggplant Parmigiana. To round out your dinner, serve a dessert with just the right amount of sweetness to complement the savoury flavours of the dish.
One classic Italian dessert that pairs perfectly with Eggplant Parmigiana is Tiramisu. Made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, this treat is a crowd-pleaser. Alternatively, you could opt for a simple fruit sorbet or gelato for those who prefer a lighter ending to the meal. Consider a lemon or berry flavour to add a refreshing touch to the palate. A decadent chocolate cake or pudding is also a great option for those with a sweet tooth. Choose a rich, dark chocolate variety to pair well with the savoury notes of the Eggplant Parmigiana. Whatever the choice, a well-chosen dessert will undoubtedly elevate your Eggplant Parmigiana dinner to new heights.
Special considerations for wine and cocktail pairings with Eggplant Parmigiana.
When it comes to pairing wine or cocktails with Eggplant Parmigiana, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, the flavor profile of the dish should be taken into account. Eggplant Parmigiana is a rich and savory dish that is often paired with bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti. These wines complement the tomato sauce and cheese that are common ingredients in Eggplant Parmigiana. Similarly, pairing a spicy Bloody Mary or a classic Negroni with Eggplant Parmigiana can bring out the dish’s rich flavors.
Another factor to consider when pairing drinks with Eggplant Parmigiana is the season. During the warmer months, it may be more appropriate to go with a lighter and fruitier wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing cocktail like a Moscow Mule. On the other hand, during the colder months, a bolder red wine or spicier cocktail may be more suitable. Ultimately, pairing the right drink with Eggplant Parmigiana can elevate the dining experience and bring out the flavors of the dish.
Final Words
Eggplant parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that requires a bit of finesse when it comes to pairing it with side dishes. To balance out the richness of the tomato sauce and melted cheese, opt for lighter, fresh salads with bright dressings. Serving eggplant parmigiana with bread, pasta or risotto ensures guests can enjoy every last bit of the delicious sauce and cheese.
Ultimately, choosing sides for eggplant parmigiana comes down to personal preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dishes and flavors to find a pairing that works best for you. Whether it’s a classic Caprese salad or a hearty serving of garlic bread, the right accompaniment can make a delicious meal even more enjoyable.